Project and Artistic Goals

PROJECT GOALS

The Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Movement reintroduces Langston Hughes’ character to participating communities and celebrates the Simple Tales. It also provides an opportunity for local organizations to collaborate with local artists to present cultural programs to their community. Through an evaluation process that includes presenter, audience, and post- performance discussions the project will assess the relevance of Hughes’ Simple Tales for our times. The project also gives community organizations an opportunity to expand artistic activities, providing local audiences and artists access to creative expression and works that reflect the history of Harlem as well as fostering a greater appreciation for Hughes and his Simple Tales.

Sponsors/presenters will provide performance space and assist the artist with promotions and audience development. Organizations and churches may schedule a performance for their members only or include the general public. Sponsors will meet with the artist to discuss date and time of presentation, performance requirements, and the evaluation process. The performance requires only one small table and two chairs, and it is directed to adapt to any space. It has taken place in classrooms, lecture and banquet halls, outdoor patios and the stage. The artist is responsible for props and costumes.

ARTISTIC GOALS

The project will challenge the artists to explore new directions in their work and expand their creative vision by placing Jesse B. Simple in the community where he was created. While sparking the artist’s desire to learn and grow, it will provide opportunities to develop professional relationships and public exhibitions while polishing his characterization of Jesse B. Simple. The project’s evaluation process and post-performance discussions will broaden the artists’ and the audience’s perspective of Hughes’ Simple Tales while enhancing their acquaintance with cultural arts traditions in the community of Harlem. The project will also provide the artists with an opportunity to collaborate with Harlem communities throughout the contry in continuing to preserve the works of Langston Hughes and African-American culture.